A NESA gift membership is ideal for Eagle Scout graduates

The NESA logo alongside a graduate cap
Graduate hat image by Shutterstock

If you search the internet for “best graduation gifts,” you’ll find ideas ranging from practical (a coffee mug!) to downright exorbitant (A top-of-the-line 4K TV? Really, people?). After a significant amount of Googling, I couldn’t find anything more useful than the suggestion I got from a coworker: a gift membership to the National Eagle Scout Association.

“A NESA gift membership is an excellent gift for Eagle Scouts graduating from high school or college, as it serves as a meaningful way to celebrate and honor their remarkable achievement,” she wrote in an email to me. “It acknowledges the dedication, hard work and perseverance that went into earning the prestigious Eagle Scout rank.”

I agree!

NESA, the official alumni association for Eagle Scouts, has undertaken the mission of supporting Eagle Scouts, thereby supporting and strengthening the Scouting movement overall.

Giving the gift of NESA is a great way to secure your graduate’s place in the BSA’s exclusive Eagle Scout community.

What makes a NESA membership a good gift?

NESA can provide your Eagle Scout graduate with a lifelong community of like-minded individuals who share a common bond through their Eagle Scout experience. By gifting a membership, you’re connecting the graduate with a network of fellow Eagle Scouts, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie.

NESA promotes Eagle Scout accomplishments, celebrates Scouting spirit and connects Eagles with opportunities to perpetuate the mission, values and time-honored traditions of Scouting for future generations.

NESA members play a critical role in creating a world filled with leaders using the Scout Oath and Law to be responsible and participating citizens.

“A NESA membership opens doors to exclusive scholarships, career resources, mentorship programs and unforgettable events,” says Michael Thompson, NESA’s vice president of membership and database. “It equips these remarkable young individuals with the tools they need to soar to new heights, serving as a lasting reminder of their dedication, leadership and commitment to making a difference.”

What about a NESA scholarship?

By gifting a NESA membership, your Eagle Scout is eligible for the NESA scholarships program, which offers a range of scholarships exclusively for Eagle Scouts, providing financial assistance for their higher education pursuits. By gifting a membership, you’re not only celebrating their graduation but also providing them access to potential educational support that can alleviate the financial burden of college or further studies.

Last year, NESA bestowed more than $500,000 in scholarships to 65 different Eagle Scouts, one of whom was Eden Tillotson from Troop 555 in San Diego, Calif.

“I am incredibly grateful for everything Scouting has given me, and especially this scholarship, which will help me immensely with my education,” Eden says.

Eagle Scout NESA Life Member knot
This knot recognizes life members of NESA for their commitment to support Eagle Scouts through a NESA life membership.

NESA helps keep the Scout spirit alive

The Eagle Scout rank represents a commitment to living by the Scout Oath and Law throughout one’s life. A membership to NESA serves as a reminder to the graduate to continue embodying these values and principles, carrying the Scout spirit with them in all their future endeavors.

NESA members across the country continue to provide service and give back to their communities through volunteering opportunities, community projects and support for Scouting initiatives. By gifting a NESA membership, you’re encouraging the graduate to stay engaged in service and contribute to the betterment of society.

How do I purchase a NESA gift membership?

NESA memberships are available in 5-year or lifetime terms. NESA members receive the exclusive Eagles’ Call Insider digital newsletter filled with curated Eagle Scout and NESA stories, members-only offers and invitations to special events to help them stay involved.

To commemorate their commitment and showcase their Eagle pride wherever they go, they will receive a personalized membership card, membership certificate and welcome letter from the president of the National Eagle Scout Association. Lifetime members receive a gold NESA membership pin.

Click here to purchase your NESA gift membership.


About Aaron Derr 429 Articles
Aaron Derr is the senior editor of Scout Life and Scouting magazines, and also a former Cubmaster and Scouts BSA volunteer.